Corts Crossroads

SALVAGED TREASURES CAPTURE HISTORY AND RELAXATION

By Leigh Cort

When the London Times (May 2010) chose Eagle Island, Georgia as one of "20 affordable private islands for hire ~ Hiring an island for an exclusive holiday isn't just for the super-rich. Here are some good value options for groups" it was obvious that another property in Capt. Andy Hill's collection of privateislandsofgeorgia.com deserved its own recognition. Journalist James Ellis stated " You can have one all to yourself and it doesn't have to cost a bomb". Equally true for Coastal Maritime Lodge . It's a stunning historic home (circa 1850's) that has been meticulously transformed stem to stern into a mainland ‘mansion' that sleeps 14. Located in the historic district of the tiny hamlet of Darien, Coastal Maritime Lodge is steps from the shrimping and boating docks with easy access to kayaking trails, fishing charters, picnics on small barrier islands…endless water day-tripping. Legendary and expansive salt marshes surround the town and from the Lodge's porch you can spot the famed Altamaha River .  Whether you bring your own boat and dock it a block away or lease one of Capt. Hill's boats for a day, PrivateIslandsofGeorgia concierge is at your service to arrange adventures, a private chef (if you must) or even a well-stocked refrigerator of coastal Georgia specialties.

Shrimp Boats at the Darien Dock

On a corner shaded with massive old live oak trees, guests can swing on the porch on furniture that is part of Hill's collection of salvaged treasures and hand-crafted furnishings found throughout the Lodge. Not many homes (especially vacation properties) can boast a gourmet indoor kitchen. Coastal Maritime Lodge is a gastronomical delight with two kitchens. Outside is complete with grills, giant crab pots for steaming oysters and the freshest local seafood in the Southeast…a party-throwers delight

Capt. Andy Hill Cruising through the Georgia Marshlands

His maritime theme is an eclectic blending of a real anchor turned chandelier in the soaring foyer, lamps made from Liberty ships, ballast stone from the sea brought to American 200 years ago, nautical maps,  mantles and wooden treasures from historic hotels, ships' search and rescue lights and sculptures depicting turtles, fish and sea life appointing every room. The spacious living room, media room, bedrooms, posh bathrooms ~ are all designed with comfort in mind. PLUS once aboard, you have total privacy without sharing the Lodge with anyone else but you and your invited guests!

Living room and Kitchen~

When you arrive in Darien , you have discovered Georgia 's second oldest city founded in 1736. It's one of the last unspoiled areas on the Eastern seaboard, rich in history, the beauty of nature, authentic Colonial forts and small town coastal living. There are still remnants from another era when great barges and so-called ‘Oconee Boxes' of cottom from the upcountry plantations were floated down the Altamaha to Darien for shipment to northern and European markets. Darien became a cotton exporting center of significance. Today's visitors have wonderful seafood restaurants within walking distance to the Lodge, a well-stocked wine store with coffee and sweets, antique shops, turn-of-the-century hardware store and a fine art museum in a renovated jail.

Cruising to Coastal Maritime Lodge in  Darien

To run away from everyday stress is important. Coastal Maritime Lodge takes you to a place where you can lose yourself and find your soul. If you have a wilderness spirit and are a creative type that needs time for inspiration, it abounds with privacy and a calm serenity ~ for those who are searching for a little bit of heaven on Earth.

www.privateislandsofgeorgia.com
www.cityofdarienga.com

Click to learn about Leigh Cort